Cruelty-Free California

  At Sonäge, we consider California our home – we are based in Los Angeles, after all. We’re proud to be from California not only for the sunshine and waves, but also for the state’s eco-friendly practices. Most recently, California introduced a new cruelty-free cosmetics bill that could change the beauty industry. Spearheaded by Senator Cathleen Galigiana, the California Cruelty-Free Cosmetics Act (SB 1249) proposes a ban on any products that are tested on animals. After January 1, 2020 it would be unlawful for cosmetics manufacturers to knowingly import or sell any cosmetic or personal hygiene item in California if the final product or any component of the product was tested on animals. “California has long been a leader in promoting modern alternatives to animal tests,” said Galgiani, and of course the world of beauty should be no different. We believe being kind is beautiful, our products have always been cruelty-free and vegan-friendly. Our commitment is to your skin and our environment, and that includes all of the creatures that we co-exist with. The New Natural ™ isn’t just about improving your skin; it’s also about protecting our planet. Animal testing for cosmetics is still a bigger issue than most may realize. Every year more than 100 million animals - including cats, dogs, monkeys and rabbits – die in laboratory testing that can be cruel and painful. Animals aren’t the only way to test products, technology allows testing to be done on human skin cultures grown in labs. These modern approaches are actually cheaper, faster and better at predicting human reactions. We want our products to be safe and humane. You would think that most if not all major beauty brands have gone cruelty-free by now, but the sad truth is that many brands still use ingredients that have been tested on animals. Cosmetics are loosely regulated in the U.S., no single agency is assigned to ensure that our personal care products are safe to use. Lucky for all of us, organizations like Environmental Working Group and Non-Toxic Revolution work to point us in the right direction. While the federal government may be behind on keeping beauty cruelty-free, California is taking action to lead the way and ensure a cruelty-free cosmetics market for its citizens, and those who purchase California-based products. If passed in California, other states will probably follow suit. The EU implemented a similar law over five years ago. The California Cruelty-Free Cosmetics Act was introduced in February and since then has been passed by the California Senate Judiciary Committee - but the bill still needs your support as it’s on its way to the Senate floor. The Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, a co-sponsor of the bill, is making it easy for California residents to show their support. They’re created a simple form with a suggested message to send to your California state Senator. If you’re a California resident and you want beauty to be cruelty-free (and we know you do), make sure to show your support here. If you’re not from California, consider writing to your Senators and propose similar measures. We can all do our part to make sure beauty is always cruelty-free.